System for producing micro-cluster liquids

ABSTRACT

The invention provides novel micro-cluster liquids and methods for manufacturing and using them. The micro-cluster liquids comprise fractionized or micro-cluster liquids, (e.g. water, such as oxygenated micro-cluster water). The methods comprise causing cavitation of a liquid to form cavitation bubbles under a first pressure followed by depressurization to a second pressure to cause implosion and explosion of the cavitation bubbles such that acoustical energy shockwaves are created. The micro-cluster water (e.g., oxygenated micro-cluster water) is used to deliver hydration, oxygenation, or agents, such as nutritional agents or medications, and increasing overall cellular performance and exchanging liquids in the cell within minutes of consumption.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

Under 35 USC §119(e)(1), this application claims the benefit of priorityof prior U.S. provisional application 60/161,546, filed Oct. 26, 1999.This aforementioned application is explicitly incorporated herein byreference in its entirety and for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to micro-cluster liquids and methods ofmaking and using them. The present invention provides a process ofmaking micro-cluster liquid and methods of use thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Water is composed of individual H₂O molecules that may bond with eachother through hydrogen bonding to form clusters that have beencharacterized as five species: un-bonded molecules, tetrahedral hydrogenbonded molecules comprised of five (5) H₂O molecules in aquasi-tetrahedral arrangement and surface connected molecules connectedto the clusters by 1, 2 or 3 hydrogen bonds, (U.S. Pat. No. 5,711,950Lorenzen; Lee H.). These clusters can then form larger arrays consistingof varying amounts of these micro-cluster molecules with weak longdistance van der Waals attraction forces holding the arrays together byone or more of such forces as; (1) dipole-dipole interaction, i.e.,electrostatic attraction between two molecules with permanent dipolemoments; (2) dipole-induced dipole interactions in which the dipole ofone molecule polarizes a neighboring molecule; and (3) dispersion forcesarising because of small instantaneous dipoles in atoms. Under normalconditions the tetrahedral micro-clusters are unstable and reform intolarger arrays from agitation, which impart London Forces to overcome thevan der Waals repulsion forces. Dispersive forces arise from therelative position and motion of two water molecules when these moleculesapproach one another and results in a distortion of their individualenvelopes of intra-atomic molecular orbital configurations. Eachmolecule resists this distortion resulting in an increased forceopposing the continued distortion, until a point of proximity is reachedwhere London Inductive Forces come into effect. If the velocities ofthese molecules are sufficiently high enough to allow them to approachone another at a distance equal to van der Waals radii, the watermolecules combine.

There is currently a need for a process whereby large molecular arraysof liquids can be advantageously fractionated. Furthermore, there is adesire for smaller molecular (e.g., micro-clusters) of water forconsumption, medicinal and chemical processes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventors have discovered that liquids, which form large moleculararrays, such as through various electrostatic and van der Waal forces(e.g., water), can be disrupted through cavitation into fractionated ormicro-cluster molecules (e.g., theoretical tetrahedral micro-clusters ofwater). The inventors have further discovered a method for stabilizingnewly created micro-clusters of water by utilizing van der Waalsrepulsion forces. The method involves cooling the micro-cluster water toa desired density, wherein the micro-cluster water may then beoxygenated. The micro-cluster water is bottled while still cold. Inaddition, by overfilling the bottle and capping while the micro-clusteroxygenated water is dense (i.e., cold), the London forces are sloweddown by reducing the agitation which might occur in a partially filledbottle while providing a partial pressure to the dissolved gases (e.g.,oxygen) in solution thereby stabilizing the micro-clusters for about 6to 9 months when stored at 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

The present invention provides a process for producing a micro-clusterliquid, such as water, comprising subjecting a liquid to cavitation suchthat dissolved entrained gases in the liquid form a plurality ofcavitation bubbles; and subjecting the liquid containing the pluralityof cavitation bubbles to a reduced pressure, wherein the reduction inpressure causes breakage of large liquid molecule matrices into smallerliquid molecule matrices. In another embodiment the liquid issubstantially free of minerals and can be water which may also besubstantially free of minerals. The embodiment provides for a processwhich is repeated until the water reaches about 140° C. (about 60° C.).The cavitation can be provided by subjecting the liquid to a firstpressure followed by a rapid depressurization to a second pressure toform cavitation bubbles. The pressurization can be provided by a pump.In one embodiment the first pressure is about 55 psig to more than 120psig. In another embodiment the second pressure is about atmosphericpressure. The embodiment can be carried out such that the pressurechange caused the plurality of cavitation bubbles to implode or explode.The pressure change may be performed to create a plasma whichdissociates the local atoms and reforms the atom at a different bondangle and strength. In another embodiment the liquid is cooled to about4° C. to 15° C. Further embodiment comprises providing gas to themicro-cluster liquid, such as where the gas is oxygen. In a furtherembodiment the oxygen is provided for about 5 to about 15 minutes.

In a further embodiment, the invention provides a process for producinga micro-cluster liquid, comprising subjecting a liquid to a pressuresufficient to pressurize the liquid; emitting the pressurized liquidsuch that a continuous stream of liquid is created; subjecting thecontinuous stream of liquid to a multiple rotational vortex having apartial vacuum pressure such that dissolved and entrained gases in theliquid form a plurality of cavitation bubbles; and subjecting the liquidcontaining the plurality of cavitation bubbles to a reduced pressure,wherein the plurality of cavitation bubbles implode or explode causingshockwaves that break large liquid molecule matrices into smaller liquidmolecule matrices. In a further embodiment the liquid is substantiallyfree of minerals and in an additional embodiment the liquid is water,preferably substantially free of minerals. The invention provides thatthe process can be repeated until the water reaches about 140° F. (about60° C.). In another embodiment the cavitation is provided by subjectingthe liquid to a first pressure followed by a rapid depressurization to asecond pressure to form cavitation bubbles. Further the inventionprovides that the pressurization is provided by a pump. In a furtherembodiment the first pressure is about 55 psig to more than 120 psigand, in another embodiment the second pressure is about atmosphericpressure, including embodiments where the second pressure is less than 5psig. The invention also provides for micro-cluster liquid where thepressure change causes the plurality of cavitation bubbles to implode orexplode. In a further embodiment, the pressure change creates a plasmawhich dissociates the local atoms and reforms the atoms at a differentbond angle and strength. The invention also provides a process where theliquid is cooled to about 4° C. to 15° C. In another embodiment, theinvention provides subjecting a gas to the micro-cluster liquid.Preferably, the gas is oxygen, especially oxygen administered for about5 to 15 minutes and more preferably at pressure from about 15 to 20psig.

The present invention also provides for a composition comprising amicro-cluster water produced according to the procedures noted above.

Still another aspect of the invention is a micro-cluster water which hasany or all of the properties of a conductivity of about 3.0 to 4.0μmhos/cm, a FTIR spectrophotometric pattern with a major sharp featureat about 2650 wave numbers, a vapor pressure between about 40° C. and70° C. as determined by thermogravimetric analysis, and an 170 NMR peakshift of at least about +30 Hertz, preferably at least about +40 Hertzrelative to reverse osmosis water.

The present invention further provides for the use of the micro-clusterwater of the invention for such purposes as modulating cellularperformance and lowering free radical levels in cells by contacting thecell with the micro-cluster water.

The present invention further provides a delivery system comprising amicro-cluster water (e.g., an oxygenated microcluster water) and anagent, such as a nutritional agent, a medication, and the like.

Further, the micro-cluster water of the invention can be used to removestains from fabrics by contacting the fabric with the micro-clusterwater.

The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth inthe accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features,objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thedescription and drawings, and from the claims.

All publications, patents and patent applications cited herein arehereby expressly incorporated by reference for all purposes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a water molecule and the resulting net dipole moment.

FIG. 2 shows a large array of water molecules.

FIG. 3 shows a micro-cluster of water having 5 water molecules forming atetrahedral shape.

FIG. 4 shows an example of a device useful in creating cavitation in aliquid. The device provides inlets for a liquid, wherein the liquid isthen subjected to multiple rotational vortexes reaching partial vacuumpressures of about 27″ Hg. The liquid then exits the device at point Athrough an acceleration tube into a chamber less than the pressurewithin the device (e.g., about atmospheric pressure).

FIG. 5 shows FTIR spectra for RO water (FIG. 5(a)) and processedmicro-cluster water (FIG. 5(b)).

FIG. 6 shows TGA plots for RO water and oxygenated micro-cluster water.

FIG. 7 shows NMR spectra for RO water (FIG. 7(a)), micro-cluster waterwithout oxygenation (FIG. 7(b)) and micro-cluster water with oxygenation(FIG. 7(c)).

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Liquids, including for example, alcohols, water, fuels and combinationsthereof, are comprised of atoms and molecules having complex moleculararrangements. Many of these arrangements result in the formation oflarge molecular arrays of covalently bonded atoms having non-covalentinteractions with adjacent molecules, which in turn interact viaadditional non-covalent interactions with yet other molecules. Theselarge arrays, although stable, are not ideal for many applications dueto their size. Accordingly it is desirable to create and provide liquidshaving smaller arrays by reducing the number of non-covalentinteractions. These smaller molecules are better able to penetrate andreact in biological and chemical systems. In addition, the smallermolecular arrays provide novel characteristics that are desirable.

As used herein, “covalent bonds” means bonds that result when atomsshare electrons. The term “non-covalent bonds” or “non-covalentinteractions” means bonds or interactions wherein electrons are notshared between atoms. Such non-covalent interactions include, forexample, ionic (or electrovalent) bonds, formed by the transfer of oneor more electrons from one atom to another to create ions, interactionsresulting from dipole moments, hydrogen bonding, and van der Waalsforces. Van der Waals forces are weak forces that act between non-polarmolecules or between parts of the same molecule, thus bringing twogroups together due to a temporary unsymmetrical distribution ofelectrons in one group, which induces an opposite polarity in the other.When the groups are brought closer than their van der Waals radii, theforce between them becomes repulsive because their electron clouds beginto interpenetrate each other.

Numerous liquids are applicable to the techniques described herein. Suchliquids include water, alcohols, petroleum and fuels. Liquids, such aswater, are molecules comprising one or more basic elements or atoms(e.g., hydrogen and oxygen). The interaction of the atoms throughcovalent bonds and molecular charges form molecules. A molecule of waterhas an angular or bent geometry. The H—O—H bond angle in a molecule ofwater is about 104.5° to 105°. The net dipole moment of a molecule ofwater is depicted in FIG. 1. This dipole moment creates electrostaticforces that allow for the attraction of other molecules of water. Recentstudies by Pugliano et al., (Science, 257:1937, 1992) have suggested therelationship and complex interactions of water molecules. These studieshave revealed that hydrogen bonding and oxygen-oxygen interactions playa major role in creating large clusters of water molecules.Substantially purified water forms complex structures comprisingmultiple water molecules each interacting with an adjacent watermolecule (as depicted in FIG. 2) to form large arrays. These largearrays are formed based upon, for example, non-covalent interactionssuch as hydrogen bond formation and as a result of the dipole moment ofthe molecule. Although highly stable, these large molecules have beensuggested to be detrimental in various chemical and biologicalreactions. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the present inventionprovides a method of forming fractionized or micro-cluster water asdepicted in FIG. 3 having as few as about 5 molecules of water.

The present invention provides small micro-cluster liquids (e.g.,micro-cluster water molecules) a method for manufacturing fractionizedor micro-cluster water and methods of use in the treatment of variousbiological conditions.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a method for manufacturingfractionized or micro-cluster liquids (e.g., water) comprisingpressurizing a starting liquid to a first pressure followed by rapiddepressurization to a second pressure to create a partial vacuumpressure that results in release of entrained gases and the formation ofcavitation bubbles. The thermo-physical reactions provided by theimplosion and explosion of the cavitation bubbles results in an increasein heat and the breaking of non-covalent interactions holding largeliquid arrays together. This process can be repeated until a desiredphysical-chemical trait of the fractionized liquid is obtained. Wherethe liquid is water, the process is repeated until the water temperaturereaches about 140° F. (about 60° C.). The resulting smaller orfractionized liquid is cooled under conditions that prevent reformationof the large arrays. As used herein, “water” or “a starting water”includes tap water, natural mineral water, and processed water such aspurified water.

Any number of techniques known to those of skill in the art can be usedto create cavitation in a liquid so long as the cavitating source issuitable to generate sufficient energy to break the large arrays. Theacoustical energy produced by the cavitation provides energy to breakthe large liquid arrays into smaller liquid clusters. For example, theuse of acoustical transducers may be utilized to provide the requiredcavitation source. In addition, cavitation can be induced by forcing theliquid through a tube having a constriction in its length to generate ahigh pressure before the constriction, which is rapidly depressurizedfollowing the constriction. Another example, includes forcing a liquidthrough a pump in reverse direction through a rotational volute.

In one embodiment, a liquid to be fractionized is pressurized into arotational volute to create a vortex that reaches partial vacuumpressures releasing entrained gases as cavitation bubbles when therotational vortex exits through a tapered nozzle at or close toatmospheric pressure. This sudden pressurization and decompressioncauses implosion and explosion of cavitation bubbles that createacoustical energy shockwaves. These shockwaves break the covalent andnon-covalent bonds on the large liquid arrays, break the weak arraybonds, and form micro-cluster or fractionized liquid consisting of, forexample, about five (5) H₂O molecules in a quasi tetrahedral arrangement(as depicted in FIG. 3), and impart an electron charge to themicro-cluster liquid thus producing electrolyte properties in theliquid. The micro-cluster liquid is recycled until desired number ofmicro-cluster liquid molecules are formed to reach a given surfacetension and electron charge, as determined by the temperature rise ofthe liquid over time as cavitation bubbles impart kinetic heat to theprocessed liquid. Once the desired surface tension and electron chargeare reached the micro-cluster liquid is cooled until liquid densityincreases. The desired surface tension and electron charge can bemeasured in any number of ways, but is preferably detected bytemperature. Once the liquid reaches a desired density, typically atabout 4 to 15° C., a gas, such as, for example, molecular oxygen, can beintroduced for a sufficient amount of time to attain the desiredquantity of oxygen in the micro-cluster liquid. The micro-cluster liquidis then aliquoted into a container or bottle, preferably filled tomaximum capacity, and capped while the gassed micro-cluster liquid isstill cool, so as to provide a partial pressure to the gassedmicro-cluster liquid as the temperature reaches room temperature. Thisenables larger quantities of dissolved gas to be maintained in solutiondue to increased partial pressure on the bottles contents.

The present invention provides a method for making a micro-cluster orfractionized water or liquid, for ease of explanation water will be usedas the liquid being described, however any type liquid may besubstituted for water. A starting water such as, for example, purifiedor distilled water is preferably used as a base material since it isrelatively free of mineral content. The water is then placed into a foodgrade stainless steel tank for processing. By subjecting the startingwater to a pump capable of supplying a continuous pressure of betweenabout 55 and 120 psig or higher a continuous stream of water is created.This stream of water is then applied to a suitable device (see forexample FIG. 4) capable of establishing a multiple rotational vortexreaching partial vacuum pressures of about 27″ Hg, thereby reaching thevapor pressure of dissolved entrained gases in the water. These gasesform cavitation bubbles that travel down multiple acceleration tubesexiting into a common chamber at or close to atmospheric pressure. Theresultant shock waves produced by the imploding and exploding cavitationbubbles breaks the large water arrays into smaller water molecules byrepeated re-circulation of the water. The recycling of the water createsincreases results in an increase in temperature of the water. The heatproduced by the imploding and exploding cavitation bubbles releaseenergy as seen in sonoluminescence, in which the temperature ofsonoluminance bubbles are estimated to range from 10 to 100 eV or2,042.033 degrees Fahrenheit at 19,743,336 atmospheres. However the heatcreated is at a sub micron size and is rapidly absorbed by thesurrounding water imparting its kinetic energy. The inventors havedetermined that the breaking of these large arrays into smaller watermolecules can be manipulated through a sinusoidal wave utilizingcavitation, and by monitoring the rise in temperature one can adjust theosmotic pressure and surface tension of the water under treatment. Theinventors have determined that the ideal temperature for oxygenatedmicro-cluster water (Penta-hydrate™) is about 140 degrees F. (about 60°C.). This can be accomplished by using four opposing vortex volutes witha 6 degree acceleration tube exiting into a common chamber at or closeto atmospheric pressure, less than 5 pounds backpressure.

As mentioned above, the inventors have also discovered that liquidsundergo a sinusoidal fluctuation in heat/temperature under the processdescribed herein. Depending upon the desired physical-chemical traits,the process is repeated until a desired point in the sinusoidal curve isestablished at which point the liquid is collected and cooled underconditions to inhibit the formation of large molecular arrays. Forexample, and not by way of limitation, the inventors have discoveredthat water processed according to the methods described herein undergoesa sinusoidal heating process. During the production of this water a highnegative charge is created and imparted to the water. Voltages of −350mV to −1 volt have been measured with a superimposed sinusoidal wavewith a frequency of 800 cycles or higher depending on operatingpressures and subsequent water velocities. The inventors have found thatthe third sinusoidal peak in temperature provides an optimal number ofmicro-cluster structures for water. Although the inventors are under noduty to provide the mechanism or theory of action, it is believed thatthe high negative ion production serves as a ready source of donorelectrons to act as antioxidants when consumed and further act tostabilize the water micro-clusters and help prevent reformation of thelarge arrays by aligning the water molecules exposed to theelectrostatic field of the negative charge. While not wanting to bebound to a particular theory, it is believed that the high temperaturesachieved during cavitation may form a plasma in the water whichdissociates the H₂O atoms and which then reform at a different bondassociation, as evidenced by the FTIR and NMR test data, to generate adifferent structure.

It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that the water of thepresent invention can be further modified in any number of ways. Forexample, following formation of the micro-cluster water, the water maybe oxygenated as described herein, further purified, flavored,distilled, irradiated, or any number of further modifications known inthe art and which will become apparent depending on the final use of thewater.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides methods ofmodulating the cellular performance of a tissue or subject. Themicro-cluster water (e.g., oxygenated microcluster water) can bedesigned as a delivery system to deliver hydration, oxygenation,nutrition, medications and increasing overall cellular performance andexchanging liquids in the cell and removing edema. Tests accomplishedutilizing an RJL Systems Bio-Electrical Impedance Analyzer model BIA101QBody Composition Analysis System™ demonstrated substantial intracellularand extracellular hydration changes in as little as 5 minutes. Testswere accomplished on a 58-year-old male 71.5″ in height 269 lbs, obesebody type. Baseline readings were taken with Bio-Electrical ImpedanceAnalyzer™ as listed below.

As described in the Examples below it is contemplated that themicro-cluster water of the present invention provides beneficial effectsupon consumption by a subject. The subject can be any mammal (e.g,equine, bovine, porcine, murine, feline, canine) and is preferablyhuman. The dosage of the micro-cluster water or oxygenated micro-clusterwater (Penta-hydrate™) will depend upon many factors recognized in theart, which are commonly modified and adjusted. Such factors include,age, weight, activity, dehydration, body fat, etc. Typically 0.5 litersof the oxygenated micro-cluster water of the invention providebeneficial results. In addition, it is contemplated that themicro-cluster water of the invention may be administered in any numberof ways known in the art, including, for example, orally andintravenously alone or mixed with other agents, compounds and chemicals.It is also contemplated that the water of the invention may be useful toirrigate wounds or at the site of a surgical incision. The water of theinvention can have use in the treatment of infections, for example,infections by anaerobic organisms may be beneficially treated with themicro-cluster water (e.g., oxygenated microcluster water).

In another embodiment, the micro-cluster water of the invention can beused to lower free radical levels and, thereby, inhibit free radicaldamage in cells.

In still another embodiment the micro-cluster water of the invention canbe used to remove stains from fabrics, such as cotton.

The following examples are meant to illustrate but no limit the presentinvention. Equivalents of the following examples will be recognized bythose skilled in the art and are encompassed by the present disclosure.

EXAMPLE 1

How to Make Micro-Cluster Water

Described below is one example of a method for making micro-clusterliquids. Those skilled in the art will recognize alternative equivalentsthat are encompassed by the present invention. Accordingly, thefollowing examples is not to be construed to limit the present inventionbut are provided as an exemplary method for better understanding of theinvention.

325 gallons of steam distilled water from Culligan Water or purified in5 gallon bottles at a temperature about 29 degrees C. ambienttemperature, was placed in a 316 stainless steel non-pressurized tankwith a removable top for treatment. The tank was connected by bottomfeed 2¼″ 316 stainless steel pipe that is reduced to 1″ NPT into a 20″U.S. filter housing containing a 5 micron fiber filter, the filterserves to remove any contaminants that may be in the water. Output ofthe 20″ filter is connected to a Teel model 1V458 316 stainless steelGear pump driven by a 3HP 1740 RPM 3 phase electric motor by directdrive. Output of the gear pump 1″ NPT was directed to a cavitationdevice via 1″ 316 stainless steel pipe fitted with a 1″ stainless steelball valve used for isolation only and past a pressure gauge. Output ofthe pump delivers a continuous pressure of 65 psig to the cavitationdevice.

The cavitation device was composed of four small inverted pump volutesmade of Teflon without impellers, housed in a 316 stainless steel pipehousing that are tangentially fed by a common water source fed by the1V458 Gear pump at 65 psig, through a ¼″ hole that would normally beused as the discharge of a pump, but are utilized as the input for thepurpose of establishing a rotational vortex. The water entering the fourvolutes is directed in a circle 360 degrees and discharged through whatwould normally be the suction side of a pump by the means of an 1″ longacceleration tube with a ⅜″ discharge hole, comprising what wouldnormally be the suction side of a pump volute but in this case isutilized as the discharge side of the device. The four reverse fedvolutes establish rotational vortexes that spin the water one 360 degreerotation and then discharge the water down the 5 degree decreasing anglefrom center line, acceleration tubes discharging the water into a commonchamber at or close to atmospheric pressure. The common chamber wasconnected to a 1″ stainless steel discharge line that fed back into thetop of the 325-gallon tank containing the distilled water. At this pointthe water made one treatment trip through the device.

The process listed above is repeated continuously until the energycreated by the implosions and explosions of the cavitation (e.g., due tothe acoustical energy) have imparted its kinetic heat into the water andthe water is at about 60 degrees Celsius.

Although the inventors are under no duty to explain the theory of theinvention, the inventors provide the following theory in the way ofexplanation and are not to be bound by this theory. The inventorsbelieve that the acoustical energy created by the cavitation brakes thestatic electric bonds holding a single tetrahedral Micro-Clusters offive H₂O molecules together in larger arrays, thus decreasing their sizeand/or create a localized plasma in the water restructuring the normalbond angles into a different structure of water.

The temperature was detected by a hand held infrared thermal detectorthrough a stainless stell thermo well. Other methods of assessing thetemperature will be recognized by those of skill in the art. Once thetemperature of 60 degrees C. has been reached the pump motor is securedand the water is left to cool. An 8 foot by 8 foot insulated room fittedwith a 5,000 Btu. air conditioner is used to expedite cooling, but thisis not required. It is important that the processed water not beagitated for cooling it should be moved as little as possible.

A cooling temperature of 4 degrees C. can be used, however 15 degrees C.is sufficient and will vary depending upon the quantity of water beingcooled. Once sufficiently cooled to about 4 to 15 degrees C. the watercan be oxygenated.

Once the water is cooled to desired temperature, the processed water isremoved from the 325 gallon stainless steel tank into 5-gallonpolycarbonate bottles for oxygenation.

Oxygenation is accomplished by applying gas O₂ at a pressure of 20 psigfed through a ¼″ ID plastic line fitted with a plastic air diffuserutilized to make fine air bubbles (e.g., Lee's Catalog number 12522).The plastic tube is run through a screw on lid of the 5 gallon bottleuntil it reaches the bottom of the bottle. The line is fitted with theair diffuser at its discharge end. The Oxygen is applied at 20 psigflowing pressure to insure a good visual flow of oxygen bubbles. In oneembodiment (Penta-hydrate™) the water is oxygenated for about fiveminutes and in another embodiment (Penta-hydrate Pro™) the water isoxygenated for about ten minutes.

Immediately after oxygenation the water is bottled in 500 ml PETbottles, filled to overflowing and capped with a pressure seal typeplastic cap with inserted seal gasket. In one embodiment, the 0.5 Lbottle is over filled so when the temperature of the water increases toroom temperature it will self pressurize the bottle retaining a greaterconcentration of dissolved oxygen at partial pressure. This step notonly keeps more oxygen in a dissolved state but also for preventingexcessive agitation of the water during shipping.

EXAMPLE 2

The following are reports from individuals who used the water of theinvention.

Elimination Of Edema:

Patient A: A 66-year-old Male presenting with (ALS) Amyothrophic LateralSclerosis (Lou Gherig's Disease) exhibited a shoulder hand syndrome withmarked swelling of the left hand. This hand being the predominatelyaffected limb. After consuming 500 ml of Penta-hydrate™ micro-clusterwater the swelling of the left hand was dramatically reduced to normalstate. Additional tests were accomplished over several weeks noting thesame reduction of edema after consuming Penta-hydrate™ micro-clusterwater. When Penta-hydrate™ was discontinued edema reoccurred overnight,upon consuming 500 ml of Penta-hydrate™ micro-cluster water edema wasreduced within 4 to 6 hours.

Patient B: Is a 53 year old female with multijoint Acute RheumatoidArthritis of 6 year duration. She has been taking diuretics fordependent edema on a daily basis for 4 years. She began takingPenta-hydrate™ Micro-Cluster Water, 5 months ago in place of diuretics,consuming three (3) 500 ml bottles daily. Within one day the edema ofthe feet/legs and hands cleared. When Penta-hydrate™ was discontinuedduring a trip, the edema promptly returned. Upon resumption ofPenta-hydrate™ Micro-Cluster Water the edema quickly cleared.

Increased Physical Endurance:

A 56-year-old woman diagnosed with “severe emphysema” and retired onfull disability underwent experimental lung reduction surgery inDecember 1998 at St Elizabeth's Hospital in Boston. Each of the lungsupper lobes were removed and re-sectioned. While the surgery was deemedsuccessful the patient had begun to deteriorate. The depression and lossof stamina was overcome by Oxy-Hi-drate Pro™. A 2⅓ increase in enduranceis usually seen in response to subject taking Penta-hydrate™ and iscaused by increased delivery of hydration to the cells, which is thedelivery system for increased oxygenation and cellular energyproduction. Tests on numerous test subjects show marked increase incellular hydration within 10 minutes of consuming Penta-hydrate™micro-cluster water.

Decreased Lactic Acid Soreness from Exercise:

The inventors have received reports of reduced or eliminated sorenesscaused by lactic acid buildup during exercise as well as increasedendurance and performance after consuming Penta-hydrate™ micro-clusterwater. This includes elderly fibromyalgia patients. Penta-hydrate™micro-cluster is thought to delay or prevent the on set of anaerobiccellular function by increasing cellular water and oxygen exchangekeeping the cells operating aerobic condition for a longer time periodduring strenuous exercise, thus preventing or delaying the buildup oflactic acid in the body.

Increased Athletic Performance:

Test accomplished on three high performance athletes have demonstrated amarked increase in overall performance.

A 29 year old male Tri-athlete competing in the 1999 Coronado Calif.21^(st) annual Super Frog Half Iron Man Triathlon consumed (6) six 500ml bottles of Penta-hydrate™ Micro-Cluster the day prior to the race and(6) six 500 ml bottles of Penta-hydrate™ during the race posted a finishtime of 4:19:37 winning the overall male winner, finishing over 24minutes ahead of the second place finisher in his age group and beatingthe combined time of the Navy SEAL Relay Team One's time of 4:26:09which had a fresh man for each leg of the three events. Normally aftersuch a demanding race this athlete would be extremely sore the next day,however drinking the Penta-hydrate™ Micro-Cluster Water he was not soreand competed in a 20 K cycle qualifier the following day. SubjectTri-Athlete has won numerous Triathlons' and qualified for the 1999World-Championships in Australia.

A 39 year old male Tri-athlete competing in the San Diego Second AnnualDuadrome World Championships on Aug. 8^(th) 1999 at the Morley FieldVelodrome. Subject athlete was pre hydrated with Penta-hydrate™Micro-Cluster Water set a new world record winning the 35-39 age groupdivision, beating his own best time by 26 seconds in the male relaydivision and the course record by 3 seconds

Both of the above Tri-athletes report dramatic increase in endurance andrapid recovery after strenuous exercise not experienced withconventional water and an ability to hydrate during the running portionof a triathlon, normally hydration is only accomplished during thecycling portion of a triathlon, due to normal water causing the subjectto regurgitate, this problem is not encountered drinking Penta-hydrate™Micro-Cluster Water due to its rapid absorption.

45-year-old woman TV 10 News anchor in San Diego, that also competes inrough ocean swimming. Consumed 500 ml of Penta-hydrate™ just prior toentering the water in a swim meet in Hawaii, won the gold medal in45-year-old age division. Returned to San Diego and competed in the LaJolla rough water swim and won a gold medal. Next competed in the. USNationals held at Catalina Island in California and won the US NationalGold Medal after drinking 500 ml of Penta-hydrate™ just prior toentering the water. She was not considered a contender for the Gold inthe US Nationals.

Congestive Heart Failure:

The inventors have had several reports from subjects with congestiveheart failure report ten minutes after consuming 500 ml of Penta-hydratePro™ their shortness of breath had gone away and their energy wasincreased.

Muscular Sclerosis MS:

A woman with Muscular Sclerosis was rushed to the hospital in SanAntonio Tex. having passed out from severe dehydration. The MS subjectdrank×500 ml bottles of Penta-hydrate™ their and was re-hydrated.

Colds, Flu, Sinus Infections and Energy:

58-year-old male with loss of spleen and 20-year sufferer offibromyalgia, suffered from chronic sinus infections and annual bouts ofthe flu and reoccurring bouts of pneumonia. He started drinking 6-500 mlbottles of Penta-hydrate™ Micro-Cluster Water per day 19 months ago. Atthat time he had a severe sinus infection that would have normallyrequired antibiotics. While taking the Penta-hydrate™ Micro-ClusterWater, the sinus infection was cleared within three days and subject hasnot had a single sinus infection in 19 months. In addition he has notexperienced any colds, flu or allergy conditions and is now for thefirst time in 20-years able to work with out fatigue.

Elimination of Edema:

In numerous test cases Penta-hydrate™ has eliminated edema in all testsubjects from both chronic health conditions as well as surgicallycaused edema. In all cases edema was dramatically reduced afterconsuming as little as one 500 ml bottle of Penta-hydrate™ Micro-ClusterWater but no more than two 500 ml bottles were required. One such casewas a middle-aged woman that had broken her forearm in two places. Theforearm was in a cast and suffering severs edema, subject was given two500 ml bottles of Penta-hydrate™ Micro-Cluster Water that she consumedfrom 3:00 pm until bedtime. Swelling was so bad that she could notinsert a business card between her swollen arm and the cast. When sheawoke at 7:00 am the next morning the swelling was reduced to where shewas endanger of loosing the cast and had to return to the orthopedicsurgeon to have the cast redone.

Liquid Nutritional Analyzer Results.

Liquid nutritional analyzer results utilizing a RJL Systems BIA101Q FDAregistered analyzer for assessing cellular hydration and health. Thefollowing measurements were preformed on a 58 year-old male subject.

Time: 7:59 am Oct. 9, 1999 Baseline Test: Measured: Resistance: 413 ohmsReactance: 53 ohms Calculated: Impedance 416 ohms Phase Angle: 7.3degrees Parallel Model: Resistance: 419.8 ohms Capacitance: 973.0 pFFluid Assessment: Status: (Edema) Results: Percent: Normal Range:Deviation: Total Body Water 63.3 L 52% (WT) 40%-50% +2 IntracellularWater 37.5 L 59% (TBW) 51%-60% +0 Extracellular Water 25.8 L 41% (TBW)39%-51% +0

Nutrition Assessment: Basal Metabolism 2069 Kcal Body Cell Mass 90.6lbs. 34% (WT) Fat Free Mass 190.2 lbs. 71% Fat 78.8 lbs. 29% ECT 99.6lbs. 52% Impedance Index 1437 NormalTime: 8:02 am consumed 500 ml Penta-hydrate Pro™

Time: 8:12 am Oct. 9, 1999 Measured: Resistance: 436 ohms Reactance: 57ohms Calculated: Impedance 439.7 ohms Phase Angle: 7.4 degrees ParallelModel: Resistance: 443.5 ohms Capacitance: 938.4 pF Fluid Assessment:Status: (Edema) Results: Percent: Normal Range: Deviation: Total BodyWater 63.3 L 51% (WT) 40%-50% +1 Intracellular Water 37.1 L 60% (TBW)51%-60% +0 Extracellular Water 25.2 L 40% (TBW) 39%-51% +0

Nutrition Assessment: Basal Metabolism 2060 Kcal Body Cell Mass 89.6lbs. 33% (WT) Fat Free Mass 188.0 lbs. 70% Fat 81.0 lbs. 30% ECT 99.6lbs. 52% Impedance Index 1469 Normal

Time: 8:38 am Oct. 9, 1999 Measured: Resistance: 442 ohms Reactance: 56ohms Calculated: Impedance 445.5 ohms Phase Angle: 7.2 degrees ParallelModel: Resistance: 449.1 ohms Capacitance: 898.0 pF Fluid Assessment:Status: (Edema) Results: Percent: Normal Range: Deviation: Total BodyWater 62.0 L 51% (WT) 40%-50% +1 Intracellular Water 36.6 L 60% (TBW)51%-60% +0 Extracellular Water 25.4 L 40% (TBW) 39%-51% +0

Nutrition Assessment: Basal Metabolism 2048 Kcal Body Cell Mass 88.4lbs. 33% (WT) Fat Free Mass 187.5 lbs. 70% Fat 81.5 lbs. 30% ECT 99.1lbs. 53% Impedance Index 1426 Normal

Time: 8:43 am Oct. 9, 1999 Measured: Resistance: 453 ohms Reactance: 57ohms Calculated: Impedance 456.6 ohms Phase Angle: 7.2 degrees ParallelModel: Resistance: 460.2 ohms Capacitance: 870.4 pF Fluid Assessment:Status: (Edema) Results: Percent: Normal Range: Deviation: Total BodyWater 63.6 L 50% (WT) 40%-50% +0 Intracellular Water 36.2 L 59% (TBW)51%-60% +0 Extracellular Water 25.3 L 41% (TBW) 39%-51% +0

Nutrition Assessment: Basal Metabolism 2040 Kcal Body Cell Mass 87.6lbs. 33% (WT) Fat Free Mass 186.5 lbs. 69% Fat 82.5 lbs. 31% ECT 99.0lbs. 53% Impedance Index 1421 NormalTime: 8:45 Consumed additional 500 ml Penta-hydrate Pro™

Time: 8:48 am Oct. 9, 1999 Measured: Resistance: 431 ohms Reactance: 60ohms Calculated: Impedance 435.2 ohms Phase Angle: 7.9 degrees ParallelModel: Resistance: 439.4 ohms Capacitance: 1008.6 pF Fluid Assessment:Status: (Edema) Results: Percent: Normal Range: Deviation: Total BodyWater 62.5 L 51% (WT) 40%-50% +1 Intracellular Water 37.9 L 61% (TBW)51%-60% +1 Extracellular Water 24.5 L 39% (TBW) 39%-51% +0

Nutrition Assessment: Basal Metabolism 2078 Kcal Body Cell Mass 91.7lbs. 34% (WT) Fat Free Mass 188.4 lbs. 70% Fat 80.6 lbs. 30% ECT 96.8lbs. 52% Impedance Index 1561 Normal

Time: 9:07 am Oct. 9, 1999 Measured: Resistance: 442 ohms Reactance: 57ohms Calculated: Impedance 445.7 ohms Phase Angle: 7.3 degrees ParallelModel: Resistance: 449.4 ohms Capacitance: 913.5 pF Fluid Assessment:Status: (Edema) Results: Percent: Normal Range: Deviation: Total BodyWater 62.0 L 51% (WT) 40%-50% +1 Intracellular Water 36.8 L 59% (TBW)51%-60% +0 Extracellular Water 25.2 L 41% (TBW) 39%-51% +0

Nutrition Assessment: Basal Metabolism 2053 Kcal Body Cell Mass 88.9lbs. 33% (WT) Fat Free Mass 187.5 lbs. 70% Fat 81.5 lbs. 30% ECT 98.6lbs. 53% Impedance Index 1452 Normal

Time: 9:27 am Oct. 9, 1999 Measured: Resistance: 427 ohms Reactance: 56ohms Calculated: Impedance 430.7 ohms Phase Angle: 7.5 degrees ParallelModel: Resistance: 434.3 ohms Capacitance: 961.1 pF Fluid Assessment:Status: (Edema) Results: Percent: Normal Range: Deviation: Total BodyWater 62.7 L 51% (WT) 40%-50% +1 Intracellular Water 37.4 L 60% (TBW)51%-60% +0 Extracellular Water 25.3 L 40% (TBW) 39%-51% +0

Nutrition Assessment: Basal Metabolism 2066 Kcal Body Cell Mass 90.3lbs. 34% (WT) Fat Free Mass 188.8 lbs. 70% Fat 80.2 lbs. 30% ECT 98.5lbs. 52% Impedance Index 1471 NormalTime: 9:38 Consumed 500 ml Penta-hydrate™

Time: 9:46 am Oct. 9, 1999 Measured: Resistance: 430 ohms Reactance: 59ohms Calculated: Impedance 434.0 ohms Phase Angle: 7.8 degrees ParallelModel: Resistance: 438.1 ohms Capacitance: 996.9 pF Fluid Assessment:Status: (Edema) Results: Percent: Normal Range: Deviation: Total BodyWater 62.0 L 51% (WT) 40%-50% +1 Intracellular Water 37.8 L 60% (TBW)51%-60% +0 Extracellular Water 24.7 L 40% (TBW) 39%-51% +0

Nutrition Assessment: Basal Metabolism 2075 Kcal Body Cell Mass 91.3lbs. 34% (WT) Fat Free Mass 188.5 lbs. 70% Fat 80.5 lbs. 30% ECT 97.2lbs. 52% Impedance Index 1539 Normal

Time: 10:32 am Oct. 9, 1999 Measured: Resistance: 437 ohms Reactance: 57ohms Calculated: Impedance 440.7 ohms Phase Angle: 7.4 degrees ParallelModel: Resistance: 444.4 ohms Capacitance: 934.2 pF Fluid Assessment:Status: (Edema) Results: Percent: Normal Range: Deviation: Total BodyWater 62.2 L 51% (WT) 40%-50% +1 Intracellular Water 37.0 L 60% (TBW)51%-60% +0 Extracellular Water 25.2 L 40% (TBW) 39%-51% +0

Nutrition Assessment: Basal Metabolism 2058 Kcal Body Cell Mass 89.5lbs. 33% (WT) Fat Free Mass 187.9 lbs. 70% Fat 81.1 lbs. 30% ECT 98.4lbs. 52% Impedance Index 1466 Normal

Although test subjects were well hydrated prior to testing, the resultswere dramatic. Analysis of the above tests clearly show rapid cellularfluid exchange not possible with current hydrating fluid hydratingtechnology, including intravenous hydration methods. Similar testsutilizing tap and purified water demonstrated no change in cellularfluid exchanges over the same time frames. Note even thoughover-hydration increased total body water, the intercellular andextracellular remained within normal range with rapid noted in and outexchanges seen in both intercellular and extracellular fluids. And a1.0% decrease in edema is noted after consuming only 500 ml ofPenta-hydrate™ micro-cluster water. It is worth noting that the basemicro-cluster water without oxygen is even more dramatic, hydrating thecells in less time than the oxygenated version micro-cluster water. Theoverall change in the Impedance Index of 124 points is utilized by theRJA System as an overall indication of health. Changes of this magnitudeare not seen in a 90 day period of monitoring in the absence ofoxygenated micro-cluster water (Penta-hydrate™ Micro-Cluster Water).However, when Penta-hydrate™ Micro-Cluster Water was consumed the 124point change occurred within a 2.5 hour period.

EXAMPLE 3

A novel water prepared by the method of the invention was characterizedwith respect to various parameters.

A. Conductivity

Conductivity was tested using the USP 645 procedure that specifiesconductivity measurements as criteria for characterizing water. Inaddition to defining the test protocol, USP 645 sets performancestandards for the conductivity measurement system, as well as validationand calibration requirements for the meter and conductivity.Conductivity testing was performed by West Coast Analytical Service,Inc. in Santa Fe Springs, Calif.

Conductivity Test Results Micro-cluster Micro-cluster w/O₂ RO waterwater water Conductivity at 25° C.* 5.55 3.16 3.88 (μmhos/cm)*Conductivity values are the average of two measurements.

The conductivity observed for the micro-cluster water is reduced byslightly more than half compared to the RO water. This is highlysignificant and indicates that the micro-cluster water exhibitssignificantly different behavior and is therefore substantivelydifferent, relative to RO unprocessed water.

B. Fourier Transform Infra Red Spectroscopy (FTIR)

Water, a strong absorber in the IR spectral region, has beenwell-characterized by FTIR and shows a major spectral line atapproximately 3000 wave numbers corresponding to O—H bond vibrations.This spectral line is characteristic of the hydrogen bonding structurein the sample. An unprocessed RO water sample, Sample A, and aunoxygenated micro-cluster water sample, Sample B, were each placedbetween silver chloride plates, and the film of each liquid analyzed byFTIR at 25° C. The FTIR tests were performed by West Coast AnalyticalService, Inc. in Santa Fe Springs, Calif. using a Nicolet Impact 400D™benchtop FTIR. The FTIR spectra are shown in FIG. 5.

In comparing the FTIR spectra for the unoxygenated micro-cluster and ROwaters, it is clear that the two samples have a number of features incommon, but also significant differences. A major sharp feature atapproximately 2650 wave numbers in the FTIR spectrum is observed for themicro-cluster water (FIG. 5(b)). The RO water has no such feature (FIG.5(a)). This indicates that the bonds in the water sample are behavingdifferently and that their energetic interaction has changed. Theseresults suggest that the unoxygenated micro-cluster water is physicallyand chemically different than RO unprocessed water.

C. Simulated Distillation

Simulated distillations were carried out on RO water and unoxygenatedmicro-cluster water without oxygenation by West Coast AnalyticalService, Inc. in Santa Fe Springs, Calif.

Simulated Distillation Test Results RO Water Unoxygenated Micro-clusterwater Boiling Point range * 98-100 93.2-100 (deg. C.)* Corrected for barometric pressure.

These results show a significant lowering of the boiling temperature ofthe lowest boiling fraction in the unoxygenated micro-cluster watersample. The lowest boiling fraction for micro-cluster water is observedat 93.2° C. compared with a temperature of 98° C. for the lowest boilingfraction of RO water. This suggests that the process has significantlychanged the compositional make-up of molecular species present in thesample. Note that lower boiling species are typically smaller, which isconsistent with all observed data and the formation of micro-clusters.

D. Thermogravimetric Analysis

In this test, one drop of water was placed in a dsc sample pan andsealed with a cover in which a pin-hole was precision laser-drilled. Thesample was subject to a temperature ramp increase of 5 degrees every 5minutes until the final temperature. TGA profiles were run on bothunoxygenated micro-cluster water and RO water for comparison.

The TGA analysis was performed on a TA Instruments Model TFA2950™ byAnalytical Products in La Canada, Calif. The TGA test results are shownin FIG. 6. Three test runs utilizing three different samples are shown.The RO water sample is designated, “Purified Water” on the TGA plot. Theunoxygenated micro-cluster water was run in duplicate, designated SuperPro 1^(st) test and Super Pro 2^(nd) Test. The unoxygenatedmicro-cluster water and the unprocessed RO water showed significantlygreater weight loss dynamics. It is evident that the RO water beganlosing mass almost immediately, beginning at about 40° C. until the endtemperature. The micro-cluster water did not begin to lose mass untilabout 70° C. This suggests that the processed water has a greater vaporpressure between 40 and 70° C. compared to unprocessed RO water. The TGAresults demonstrated that the vapor pressure of the unxoygenatedmicro-cluster water was lower when the boiling temperature was reached.These data once again show that the unoxygenated micro-cluster water issignificantly changed compared to RO water. These data once again showthat the unoxygenated micro-cluster water also shows more featuresbetween the temperatures of 75 and 100+deg. C. These features couldaccount for the low boiling fraction(s) observed in the simulateddistillation.

E. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy

NMR testing was performed by Expert Chemical Analysis, Inc. in SanDiego, Calif. utilizing a 600 MHz Bruker AM500™ instrument. NMR studieswere performed on micro-cluster water with and without oxygen and on ROwater. The results of these studies are shown in FIG. 7. In ¹⁷O NMRtesting a single expected peak was observed for RO water (FIG. 7 (a)).For micro-cluster water without oxygen (FIG. 7(b)), the single peakobserved was shifted +54.1 Hertz relative to the RO water, and for themicro-cluster water with oxygen (FIG. 7(c)), the single peak was shifted+49.8 Hertz relative to the RO water. The shifts of the observed NMRpeaks for the micro-cluster water and RO water. Also of significance inthe NMR data is the broadening of the peak observed with themicro-cluster water sample compared to the narrower peak of theunprocessed sample.

1.-48. (canceled)
 49. A system for producing a micro-cluster liquid froma starting liquid, comprising: a cavitation device comprising: ahousing; a plurality of reverse-fed pump volutes disposed within thehousing, each volute for establishing a rotational vortex for spinningthe liquid in a circle and directing the liquid into a common chamberdisposed at a center of the housing; and a discharge line connected tothe common chamber for carrying the liquid out of the housing; a pumpfor feeding the liquid into the cavitation device at a first pressure;and a tank for retaining the starting liquid; wherein the rotationalvortex creates a partial vacuum within the spinning liquid so thatcavitation bubbles are formed when the liquid exits the volute.
 50. Thesystem of claim 49, wherein each volute has a hole disposed so thatliquid pumped into the housing is tangentially fed into the volute sothat it spins one 360 degree rotation before exiting through a taperednozzle.
 51. The system of claim 50, wherein the plurality of volutes aredisposed with their tapered nozzles directed toward each other into thecommon chamber.
 52. The system of claim 49, wherein the common chamberhas a second pressure lower than the first pressure, so that thecavitation bubbles implode or explode.
 53. The system of claim 52,wherein the second pressure is at or close to atmospheric pressure. 54.The system of claim 49, further comprising a return line for feedingliquid from the discharge line back into the tank so that the liquid ispassed through the cavitation device a plurality of iterations.
 55. Thesystem of claim 54, further comprising a thermal detector for measuringa temperature of the liquid exiting the cavitation device foridentifying a termination point for processing the liquid.
 56. Thesystem of claim 54, wherein the termination point is when the liquidtemperature reaches 60° C.
 57. The system of claim 49, wherein thestarting liquid is distilled or purified water.
 58. The system of claim49, where each volute is formed from Teflon®.
 59. The system of claim49, wherein the first pressure is 65 psig.
 60. The system of claim 49,further comprising a gas diffuser for introducing gas into the processedliquid.
 61. The system of claim 60, wherein the liquid is water and thegas is oxygen.
 62. A system for processing a starting liquid,comprising: a tank for retaining the starting liquid; a pump for pumpingthe liquid at a first pressure; a cavitation device for receiving theliquid from the pump, the cavitation device comprising a plurality ofreverse-fed pump volutes disposed within a housing, wherein each voluteis tangentially fed for establishing a rotational vortex for spinningthe liquid in a circle and discharging the liquid through a taperednozzle into a common chamber disposed at a center of the housing, andwherein the rotational vortex creates a partial vacuum within thespinning liquid so that cavitation bubbles are formed when the liquidexits the volute; and a discharge line connected at an inlet end to thecommon chamber for carrying the liquid out of the housing and at anoutlet end to the tank.
 63. The system of claim 62, wherein theplurality of volutes are disposed with their tapered nozzles directedtoward each other into the common chamber.
 64. The system of claim 62,wherein the common chamber has a second pressure lower than the firstpressure, so that the cavitation bubbles implode or explode.
 65. Thesystem of claim 64, wherein the second pressure is at or close toatmospheric pressure.
 66. The system of claim 62, further comprising athermal detector for measuring a temperature of the liquid exiting thecavitation device for identifying a termination point for processing theliquid.
 67. The system of claim 62, where each volute is formed fromTeflon®.
 68. The system of claim 62, wherein the first pressure is 65psig.